The house is organized as a series of flexible hubs or activity centers linked to multiple courtyards and porches. The kitchen is the largest hub: the dining room, family room, morning room, and living room open to it. Nearby are the dining patio--complete with outdoor kitchen--and the entertaining terrace. The children's den functions as the secondary hub, for games or computer work; it can also serve as an extra bedroom. It's surrounded by two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a laundry room, and a porch.

A trellis-covered walkway connects the house with the garage-casita, where there is room for one car in addition to the home office. This space can be adapted as a guest suite. The main two-car garage opens to the mudroom, which doubles as a recycling center and potting area.

You can order a complete set of Sunset 1999 Idea House plans, source code SSIH-99, by calling (800) 820-1283; cost is $714 for the first set of blueprints, $744 for four sets, $789 for eight sets. Shipping and handling costs and applicable taxes are extra.

Key features

5,515 square feet of living space (including garages) designed to maximize views and outdoor living

2 garages--1 for two cars; 1 for one car--demarcate a motor court

Master suite with vestibule, walk-in closet, double-door "shower island," whirlpool tub, 2 sinks

2 more bathrooms and 3 powder rooms

Family room with fireplace and media center

Veranda off the family room

Morning room / lanai

Dining patio with outdoor kitchen

Formal dining room

Living room with fireplace and doors opening to entertaining terrace

Library off the living room

2 bedrooms with access to the front porch: either can function as a home office, den, or guest room

Children's den or extra bedroom

Linen storage hall

Casita that can function as a home office or workshop

Laundry room

Mudroom / recycling center